Kia Spectra

Test details:

The Kia Spectra was redesigned during the 2004 model year. (The old design was produced through November 2003; these cars are also designated as 2004 models.) All 2004 and later Spectra models manufactured after November 2003 are the redesigned cars (note: information about when a specific vehicle was manufactured is on the certification label typically affixed to the car on or near the driver door).

The Institute evaluated a 2004 Spectra manufactured after November 2003. Forces on the head and neck were high, leading to a marginal head/neck injury rating. This rating, along with acceptable or marginal ratings for the chest and both legs, contributed to a poor overall rating. In response, Kia reduced the size of the driver airbag vent holes to lessen the injury forces occurring on the head and neck. Cars manufactured after January 2005 are equipped with the new airbag design.

The evaluation of the Spectra below is based on the test of a 2005 model built before January 2005 but retrofitted prior to the test with the redesigned airbag. However, because no structural changes were made, the structure rating is based on tests of both the 2005 and 2004 models.

Restraints/dummy kinematics — Dummy movement was reasonably well controlled. During rebound, the dummy's head moved partway out the open side window and hit the B-pillar.

Injury measures — A high head acceleration occurred when the dummy's head hit the steering wheel through the airbag, indicating that head injuries would be possible in a crash of this severity. Forces on the chest and both tibias indicate that injuries of the chest and lower legs would be possible. Head acceleration from the B-pillar hit was low.